Sewage and Wastewater

Cassowary Coast Regional Council is committed to protecting public health and the environment through safe and effective sewage and wastewater management.

We own and operate four sewerage schemes across the region, servicing approximately 8,000 properties. These schemes collect and treat wastewater before safely discharging it in accordance with our Environmental Authority (EA) conditions under the Environmental Protection Act 1994.

Sewage (also known as wastewater) is the used water that flows from your sinks, showers, toilets, washing machines, and businesses. It contains organic waste, detergents, chemicals, and other contaminants that must be removed to protect the environment and public health.

How is sewage treated?

Wastewater collected from households and businesses is directed through a network of underground sewer pipes to one of our treatment plants. At the plant, it goes through several treatment stages, including:

  • Screening and primary treatment: Removing large solids and grit
  • Biological treatment: Using natural bacteria to break down organic matter
  • Clarification and disinfection: Settling out remaining particles and treating the water to remove pathogens

The treated water is then either reused (where possible) or discharged in a safe and regulated way.

Council’s role

Council is responsible for:

  • Operating and maintaining sewerage infrastructure
  • Monitoring treatment processes to meet environmental standards
  • Planning for future capacity and system upgrades
  • Responding to sewage overflows and system faults
  • Ensuring compliance with State Government regulations

We report annually on our sewerage performance through our Water Supply and Sewerage Services Customer Chater(PDF, 1MB) and Environmental Reporting obligations.

 

Your Role

Residents and businesses also play a part in keeping the system running smoothly by:

  • Only flushing the 3Ps – pee, poo, and toilet paper
  • Avoiding pouring fats, oils, or chemicals down the drain
  • Reporting leaks or blockages to Council promptly
  • Complying with trade waste requirements

Make sure you know what you can flush down the sink or toilet. And what you can't!

Don't flush:

  • fats and oils
  • dangerous chemicals
  • flushable wipes, wet wipes or disposable nappies

Need More Information?

If you have any questions or concerns about our water treatment processes or water quality, please contact us. We are here to help!

Contact Us:

 

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